Portovenere: Isola Palmaria, Tino, and Tinetto Boat Tour

Portovenere: Isola Palmaria, Tino, and Tinetto Boat Tour Review

If you’re heading to Liguria and looking for a way to experience the coast’s natural beauty without spending an entire day on the water, this short boat tour might be just the ticket. It offers a gentle, scenic cruise around the three islands of the Spezzino Archipelago—Palmaria, Tino, and Tinetto—and promises some fun breaks for swimming and snorkeling.

What caught our eye are two main things: the small-group setting that keeps things intimate and personalized, and the chance to see these islands from the water, which really highlights their rugged charm. On the downside, this isn’t a comprehensive sightseeing tour or packed with historical info, so if you’re after a deep dive into Ligurian history or a full-day adventure, this might feel a little light. But if you’re after a relaxing escape with great views, it’s worth considering, especially if you’re traveling with a small group or family who loves water activities.

This tour is ideal if you’re short on time but still want to enjoy the coast’s signature scenery and crystal-clear sea. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who enjoy swimming and snorkeling in calm waters and appreciate small, friendly tours that avoid the crowds.

Key Points

• Short but sweet: The 1.5-hour duration makes this a quick, manageable trip perfect for fitting into a busy schedule.
• Small group experience: Limited to 7 participants, so you get a more personal, less crowded outing.
• Scenic island visits: Stops at three islands provide plenty of photo opportunities and a glimpse of untouched nature.
• Water fun: Swim and snorkel in the Ligurian Sea, with equipment provided, making it ideal for those wanting a quick dip.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable local guides share interesting facts and point out highlights like Torre Scola and the Madonnina.
• Good value: At around $45.55 per person, it offers a lot of charm and activity for the price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: What to Expect on the Tour

This tour begins at Piazza Darsena in Portovenere, where your guide, dressed in a white T-shirt, will meet you. From there, you’ll hop onto a well-maintained boat that promises a cozy, intimate ride—perfect for small groups or families. The trip kicks off with a cruise around the Gulf of Poets, offering sweeping views of Portovenere’s dramatic coastline.

First Stop: Palmaria Island

Palmaria is the largest of the three islands, known for its rugged cliffs and natural beauty. You’ll have a photo stop and a guided tour lasting about 30 minutes, giving you a chance to admire the landscape and learn a bit about the island’s geography. Many reviews mention how stunning the views are, with travelers remarking on the incredible scenery from the boat and the island itself.

Second Stop: Tino Island

Next, you’ll visit Tino Island, which features the lighthouse and the Madonnina. The guided tour here is shorter—about 20 minutes—so you’ll get a quick but meaningful look at this iconic spot. The lighthouse offers a great photo opportunity, and many appreciate the chance to see the Madonnina emerging from the sea.

Third Stop: Tinetto Island

This tiny island is more about its historical ruins and scenic views. You’ll only spend about 10 minutes here, enough to snap a few photos and hear a few tales from your guides. It’s a quick stop, but it adds to the overall sense of discovery and connection to the area’s history.

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Swimming and Snorkeling

After exploring the islands, the tour returns to Palmaria for a 20-minute swim stop. Many reviews highlight the crystal-clear waters of the Ligurian Sea, perfect for a quick dip. snorkel gear is included, so you can explore the underwater world. Be aware that some reviewers mention the water can be cold, but most agree that the experience is worth it. One tip from a reviewer: if you plan to swim to the secluded beaches, bring swim shoes—there are sharp rocks, and the sand can get hot.

Final Moments and Return

Before heading back to Portovenere, the boat makes a final stop at Saint Peter’s Church, considered one of the most beautiful in the area. The trip ends back at Môle Doria, where it all began. The whole experience combines sightseeing, a touch of adventure, and relaxation, making it a well-rounded short escape.

The Details That Matter

Duration and Timing:
At just 1.5 hours, this tour is quick but packed with highlights. Check availability for start times, as the schedule varies, but typically you’ll find options around midday.

Price and Value:
At $45.55 per person, the cost is quite reasonable considering the small group setting, guided tours, snorkeling equipment, and the scenic stops. It’s a good value for travelers who want a taste of the islands without committing to a full-day tour.

Group Size:
Limited to 7 participants, the small group aspect really shines here. It allows for a more relaxed, personalized experience—many reviews mention how friendly and welcoming the guides are.

What’s Included:
Snorkeling gear, a knowledgeable skipper, and fuel are all covered. You’ll need to bring your own passport or ID and some beachwear, plus any snacks or drinks you want, as none are included.

What’s Not Included:
Food and drinks are not part of the package, so plan accordingly if you want a snack or water onboard.

Meeting Point:
Starting at Piazza Darsena, look for guides in white T-shirts. The tour finishes back at the same point, making logistics straightforward.

Accessibility and Suitability:
This isn’t suitable for wheelchair users. It’s primarily a water-based experience, so consider your comfort with swimming and being on boats.

What the Reviews Say

The overall rating of 4.7 from 247 reviews speaks volumes about this tour’s popularity. Many travelers praise the friendly guides and beautiful views, with several mentioning how the small boat allowed for an intimate experience—some even had the entire boat to themselves. Comments like “the guides were knowledgeable about the area” and “the water was gorgeous” are common.

Several reviewers emphasize the value for money, noting that the trip exceeds expectations given the price. The swim stop seems to be a crowd favorite; many describe it as a memorable highlight. A few mention the cold water, but most agree that the experience is worth it.

Not everyone found the guides to be highly talkative, with one reviewer noting they were polite but not very engaging. Still, the general consensus is that the trip is charming, relaxing, and offers great photo opportunities.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for small groups or families looking for a quick, scenic escape. It’s ideal if you enjoy water activities like swimming and snorkeling and want to see the islands without a lengthy tour. It’s also suitable for travelers who value personalized experiences and beautiful landscapes over historical deep-dives or long excursions.

If you have limited time in Portovenere or are traveling with someone who prefers relaxing by the water, this tour hits the spot. However, if you’re after a more detailed historical or cultural tour, or if you’re not comfortable on boats, you might want to explore other options.

FAQs About the Tour

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Piazza Darsena, where your guide will meet you wearing a white T-shirt.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 1.5 hours, making it a quick but enjoyable outing.

What’s included in the price?
Snorkeling equipment, a skilled skipper, and fuel are included.

Can I bring my own food or drinks?
No, food and beverages are not included, so bring your own if you want snacks or water.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the water activities and small group setting suggest it’s best for those comfortable with swimming and being on boats.

Do I need my passport or ID?
Yes, bring your passport or ID card for identification purposes.

What should I wear?
Beachwear is recommended, along with sunscreen and a hat for sun protection.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Will I see any historical sites?
You’ll see Torre Scola ruins and Saint Peter’s Church, but the focus is more on scenery and water activities.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour offers a compact, engaging way to explore Liguria’s beautiful islands. It’s particularly suited for those who want a relaxed, small-group experience with opportunities to swim and snap photos in pristine waters. The guides’ local knowledge, combined with the breathtaking scenery, makes it a memorable addition to any Ligurian trip—perfect for a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of more crowded tours.

If you’re visiting Portovenere and longing for a peaceful day at sea, this tour could very well fit the bill. Just be prepared for the cold water and bring your camera — the views are worth it. It’s a relaxed, friendly experience that balances sightseeing and fun in just the right measure for many travelers.

Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget your swimsuit!

You can check availability for your dates here: